A Psalm for the Wild-Built (Monk & Robot, #1)

by Becky Chambers

The intense feeling of containment within the City became intolerable. Dex wanted to inhabit a place that spread not up but out.

Dex realized with a stomach-souring thud that they were standing on the wrong side of the vast gulf between having read about doing a thing and doing the thing.

Outside, the world was enjoying a perfect day. Light streamed golden through the branches overhead, and the tips of budding branches waved good-morning in the shy breeze. A stream chattered nearby. A butterfly the size of Dex’s hand alighted on a thistle and spread its purple wings wide and flat, savoring the sunshine. Everything about Dex’s surroundings, from the temperature to the floral backdrop, was the ideal accompaniment to the smooth, downhill bike ride that awaited them. Dex sighed, and the sound was empty.

The wilderness was not known for letting the foolish return.

Dex took note of Mosscap’s phrasing. “So, it is correct, then? You wouldn’t prefer they or—” “Oh, no, no, no. Those sorts of words are for people. Robots are not people. We’re machines, and machines are objects. Objects are its.” “I’d say you’re more than just an object,” Dex said. The robot looked a touch offended. “I would never call you just an animal, Sibling Dex.” It turned its gaze to the road, head held high. “We don’t have to fall into the same category to be of equal value.” Dex had never thought about it like that. “You’re right,” they said. “I’m sorry.” “Don’t be. This is an exchange, remember? These things will happen.”

“We teach that purpose doesn’t come from the gods but from ourselves. That the gods can show us good resources and good ideas, but the work and the choice—especially the choice—is our own. Deciding on your purpose is one of the most valuable things there is.”